#paganseries

The Stag

Strohmann

Pagan costumes are often made out of vegetable matter such as rye or oat straws. In certain regions of Germany, men personify characters such as Strohbär (Bear of Straw) or Strohmann (Straw Man) and Pelzmärtle, whose costume is made out of braided straws. The Pelzmärtle’s role is to punish disobedient children around Christmas time.

Sourvakari

I was amazed by the Sourvakari’s complex head dresses made of out of feathers. In certain regions of Bulgaria, they come out during New Year to dance around the fire and bring prosperity to the villagers.

Krampusspiel

My piece for the Ill Tidings, We Bring show with the Dusk Art Collective

This is my interpretation of the German holiday tradition. Krampusspiel or Krampus’ game represents the connection between humans and nature through winter rituals; the primitive pagan behind the mask.

Trapajones

The next in my pagan costume series comes from Spain and it takes part in the masquerade during the first Sunday of the year. The performance is supposed to ensure protection of cattle and men and ward of evil spirits.Their costumes can be made out of ivy, fern, moss or nut shells.